What feature makes proportional valves particularly useful in pneumatic applications?

Proportional valves are especially beneficial in pneumatic applications due to their ability to provide variable control of flow and pressure. This capability allows for more precise management of the air supply to various components, leading to smoother operation and improved performance in systems that require nuanced adjustments.

By adjusting the valve position in response to a control signal, proportional valves can regulate not only the amount of airflow but also the pressure at which it is delivered. This is crucial for applications where maintaining specific operational parameters is necessary for optimal functioning, such as in automation systems or processes that require exact movements.

The versatility provided by proportional valves makes them suitable for tasks such as adjusting the speed of actuators or achieving smooth starts and stops, which enhances overall efficiency and reduces wear and tear on mechanical components.